FLASHBACK Erwin Vandendaele was first called up to the Belgian national team, the Red Devils, on February 25, 1970. However, he did not play that day. His debut came later that year, on November 15, in a match against France.
In total, he earned 32 caps for Belgium. Vandendaele delivered several strong performances for the Red Devils, especially in the early 1970s. Notably, in a game against Portugal, he effectively neutralized the great Eusebio.
Vandendaele played 92 matches for Anderlecht as a central midfielder, scoring one goal. He joined the club in 1974, transferring from Club Brugge. At the time, Vanden Stock paid a hefty sum for his transfer. During his time at Anderlecht, Vandendaele won several cups, the UEFA Super Cup, and the European Cup Winners' Cup. However, he had to miss the final against West Ham, which Anderlecht won, due to an injury. He was present, though, when Anderlecht claimed the European Super Cup against the mighty Bayern Munich.
For a period, Vandendaele even served as captain of the purple and white. As a defender, he was a true stylist. Losing possession was a rare occurrence for him. He possessed very solid technique but, above all, played with great simplicity. He never wasted unnecessary energy and always played it safe. He excelled in the libero position but was also comfortable in midfield. Vandendaele had a brilliant passing ability. Most importantly, he had an excellent sense of where the danger was brewing and intervened appropriately.
In 1977, after three years with Anderlecht and at the age of 32, he moved to Stade de Reims. He retired as a player in 1981 and went on to coach numerous teams, including Gent (twice) and RWDM. He ended his coaching career in 1991. In 2005, he returned to football as a scout for AA Gent.
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In a flashback article, we look back in time at an important event for the club or a former player.
